CVE-2013-2596 is a high-severity integer overflow vulnerability in the Linux kernel, specifically in the fb_mmap function located in drivers/video/fbmem.c. This vulnerability affects versions of the Linux kernel prior to 3.8.9, including specific builds of Android 4.1.2 used in Motorola devices. The vulnerability allows local users to create a read-write memory mapping for the entirety of kernel memory, potentially leading to privilege escalation.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 7.8, indicating a high severity level. Organizations should be concerned as the risk to organizations includes unauthorized access and control over kernel memory, which can have significant implications.
Currently, this vulnerability is known to have public exploits available, as demonstrated by the Motochopper program. Given the potential for exploitation and the severity of the vulnerability, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Mitigation steps should be taken swiftly to avoid any potential exploitation that could arise from this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The integer overflow vulnerability located in the fb_mmap function of the Linux kernel allows local attackers to map kernel memory in a read-write manner through specially crafted mmap2 system calls. The vulnerability affects all versions of the Linux kernel prior to 3.8.9.
The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-190, which pertains to integer overflow. The product affected is the Linux kernel itself, and it has been exploited in specific builds of Android, particularly those used by Motorola.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in an integer overflow that occurs in the fb_mmap function. The attack vector is local, meaning that an attacker must have physical access to the device to exploit this vulnerability. The attack complexity is low, and only low privileges are required to execute the attack. Importantly, user interaction is not necessary for the attack to succeed.
If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to significant impacts across confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to gain root access, thereby compromising the entire system.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with CVE-2013-2596 is substantial. Organizations utilizing affected versions of the Linux kernel may experience unauthorized access to critical system resources, potentially leading to data breaches or system compromise. The blast radius of such an attack could extend across multiple devices if they share the same kernel version.
Given the high CVSS score, coupled with its inclusion in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog, organizations must take immediate action. Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | Yes |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The Linux kernel versions prior to 3.8.9 are affected by this vulnerability, including those used in specific Motorola Android builds, particularly Android 4.1.2.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should apply updates as per vendor instructions to mitigate this vulnerability. Ensure that all systems are upgraded to the latest version of the Linux kernel that is not affected by this vulnerability.
If immediate patching is not possible, consider implementing network controls to limit access to vulnerable systems and monitor for any unusual activity indicating exploitation attempts.
Detection Guidance
Monitor logs for any unusual mmap2 system calls that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Look for patterns of access to /dev/graphics/fb0 or attempts to gain elevated privileges.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2013-2596 highlights the importance of proactive vulnerability management in the software development lifecycle. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the potential impact of seemingly minor coding errors, such as integer overflows, which can have catastrophic consequences.
Security teams should review their coding practices to avoid similar vulnerabilities and ensure comprehensive testing is conducted to catch these issues before deployment.
For further guidance on vulnerability management and security best practices, organizations may find value in reviewing our resources on vulnerability management programs and penetration testing methodologies to enhance their overall security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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